Peoria IL Moving Companies

Peoria, Illinois

You have likely heard the saying: “Will it play in Peoria?” and wondered about its origins. Those in the know put it down to a catch phrase that first emerged from Vaudeville or Burlesque and somehow stuck, first in theatrical circles and then in mainstream life in general in America. It then became a metaphor for whether or not something appeals to the American mainstream public! No matter, Peoria citizens laugh it off and are happy that their fine city is a famous moving destination.

Economy:
Peoria, Illinois is located at the center of an extremely fertile agricultural area and has therefore a strong farming heritage both in terms of livestock and crops. Indeed, farm production and sales of livestock in the three-county area rank at the highest level in the country. But mining is also important to the city of Peoria because its surrounding area is rich in high quality coal deposits with reserves good for the next century-and-a-half. However, manufacturing is still the major industry as testified by the presence of more than 200 diverse manufacturers making over 1,000 different products. Peoria finds itself the headquarters of two of the largest earth-moving equipment suppliers in the United States, and local automobile component makers produce more than 14 percent of the country’s internal-combustion engines. Adding to this vibrant local economy are construction machinery manufacturers (accounting for about 8% of the North American output) and several breweries and distilleries too. Health care, education insurance and finance as well as government activities all contribute handsomely to the local economy and provide work for the citizens of Peoria.

History:
Pre-dating the first European and American settlers were a number of tribes of Native American Indians living in harmony with nature. They comprised the major tribes of Illinois, namely the Peoria (from which whom the City took its name), Kaskaskia, Michigamea, Cahokia and the Tamaroa tribes. Then followed the French in 1680 and what started out as Fort Clark was officially named “Peoria” in 1825. In 1854 Abraham Lincoln, ably assisted by Stephen A. Douglas, delivered an impassioned three-hour speech on the Courthouse steps concerning the issue of slavery and introducing the principles of self-government and liberty for all people. Peoria became a prominent stop on the Vaudeville tour and quickly became known as a wild town of liquor, entertainment and a lot more besides. To this day many of the Mansions on Moss Avenue and High Street owe their development directly to the Peoria Whiskey Baron Era. Thankfully, things quieter in that regard today as Peoria finds itself the largest City on the Illinois River and the County Seat of Peoria County. These days, Peoria has become representative of the average Midwestern culture, portraying the archetypal American City in this region too.

Tourism:
Considering relocating to Peoria? You may well decide favorably when you discover what is on offer. Let us start with the Peoria River Front area as it is strongly linked to the City’s history. There is something for everyone in this vibrant urban area, be it Arts and Culture, History (several Museums), romantic nightlife or just plain chilling out at a movie. If you prefer to connect with nature, then take the entire family along to the City Zoo and make a great day out of it.There are always special attractions, just check the events-calendar on line. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Luthy Botanical Gardens. There are also many public gardens, working farms and ranches, but be sure to keep some time to go shopping. Flanagan House is surely worth a visit and is maintained by the Peoria Historical Society and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ranking as Peoria’s oldest standing building. Built in 1837, it is a Federal-style home and remains authentically decorated and furnished with period-piece furniture as well.

Colleges/Universities:

• Bradley University
• Midstate College

Interesting Facts:

• David Ogden Stiers, otherwise known as “Major Charles Winchester” in M*A*S*H, hails from Peoria.
• One “A. Bookbinder” is today Peoria’s most celebrated ghost. He was institutionalized in the Peoria State Hospital and many strange events have occurred since his death and burial in Bartonville.
• At one time Peoria with its abundant resources of water, corn and barley and transportation links produced more whisky that any other City in history – if Peoria had a nickname, then it should be Whisky City.